Researchers at MIT has the breakthrough at last. By utilizing the ability of some special molecule group called Photoswitch molecule, solar energy can be stored in chemical form. The energy can be released by triggering the reverse reaction, and the energy will be released again. Azobenzene is a good example to accomplish that since it has two benzene groups in a trans position that has a shape like an unfolded paper. When a photo particle hits this molecule, it causes it to changes its shape into cis position that has a shape like a folded paper [See Figure 1]. It can be kept it that position as long as if the physical condition allows.

With the help of nanotechnology, these molecules can be packed and arranged into carbon nanotubes and make them more efficient in storing energy and control. According to Kucharski that it could be stored in liquid form and store the energy in a storage tank. It's truly a renewable energy coming to you soon.

However, if a plant can talk, it will say that in the world of plants, storing sun's energy is nothing new at all and they are doing it every single day for the last millions of years on earth. The sun's energy is absorbed and stored in plants in the form of sugar via photosynthesis. Whenever plants need the energy, the stored sugar is breaking down into ATP as a suitable energy source for the entire plant.

Arthur Wang

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